Glenbranter

Looking back on the trips my mum and I took in 2014 one thing is very clear, the weather was much nicer! This year, while the rest of Europe has been suffering a heatwave, Scotland has been consistently dreich. To accommodate the weather we have had to change our usual summer days of open hill walks, beachside strolls and island hopping to more sheltered trips.  Today we dressed up in our waterproof trousers and set off on a woodland walk at Glenbranter.

This walk can be as long or short as you like with numerous paths that intertwine, all guided by coloured posts. We decided on the path which leads past the waterfalls and takes in some views of the surrounding mountains. I didn't know much about this walk prior to setting off (we only really decided on it when we were driving by) but was impressed with the interesting, twisting paths and waterfalls which get bigger with every turn.

There is a signpost to Glenbranter from the main road and a carpark with rangers centre and toilets so perfect for an easy family walk, even in the rain.

 The Facts on Glenbranter:

• We started from the events car park just past the rangers centre. 
• There are also toilets at the rangers centre.
• Walking at a leisurely pace this walk took us just over an hour. 
• Each walk is different but the distance for the route we chose was around 4km.
• Difficult points: Some bits were slightly muddy but it was raining when we were there. Nothing too tricky!
• Wear: Weather appropriate clothing. No need for specialist clothes.
• Perfect for anyone, from dogwalkers and families to cyclists (there is a longer cycle path here too).

If you're looking for some more information on Glenbranter I'd recommend this page. 

Puck's Glen

A couple of weekends ago my mum and I made a trip to Puck's Glen. It is slightly further than we usually travel for walks but had heard it was worth the journey. Puck's Glen is a beautiful walk through atmospheric woodland with gnarled rocky walls and stunning waterfalls. It feels like somewhere fairies would live!

This is not a long walk, and suitable for anyone; we passed loads of dogwalkers, families with children of all ages and even a couple of mountain bikers. The route is simple and there is a free car park at the start of the walk that is marked with a Puck's Glen signpost. I thought instead of rambling on about the route I'd share some of my snaps from the day. I hope you like them!

If you'd like some more information on the walk I'd recommend this page

The Kelpies

I recently made my first trip to The Kelpies and took some pictures to share with you. They are beautiful modern sculptures filled with movement and attract the eye from all angles. However, we hadn`t prepared for how busy the park around The Kelpies was; the car park was completly full and the queue for the 2 toilets they have was about 20minutes long. I have now learnt that The Kelpies is a very popular day out where kids take their bikes and footballs and older couples take picnics and small (and large) dogs. There is also a tourist centre opening next year!

It is great to see that people are interested and captivated by the giant water horses and that contemporary art is appealing for all. Have you been to see The Kelpies?